The Detroit Lions have made several roster moves following the conclusion of mandatory minicamp, including the release of wide receiver Kyre Duplessis and the addition of three former UFL playmakers as training camp approaches.
Detroit announced the signings of wide receivers Tarik Black, Lucky Jackson, and Tay Martin on Wednesday as the team prepares for a highly competitive battle for roster spots this summer. To create room on the roster, the Lions placed rookie wide receiver Kendrick Law on the Reserve/Injured list and waived Duplessis.
Martin, 28, brings NFL experience after spending time with the Tennessee Titans and Washington Commanders over the last two seasons. He recorded three receptions for 72 yards and a touchdown before continuing his development with the Columbus Aviators of the UFL. He now joins Detroit looking to earn a place on the practice squad or potentially compete for a larger role.
Duplessis was signed earlier this month after Law suffered a season-ending ACL injury. The former Delaware standout impressed during his final collegiate season but was unable to secure a longer stay on Detroit’s roster.
Lions Wide Receiver Competition Heating Up Ahead of Training Camp
With the additions of Black, Jackson, and Martin, the Lions’ wide receiver room becomes even more crowded heading into training camp. Detroit currently has just one open spot remaining on its 90-man roster and is expected to feature one of its most competitive camps under head coach Dan Campbell.
The newcomers face an uphill climb to make the 53-man roster, with practice squad positions appearing to be the more realistic target. However, strong performances during training camp and preseason could quickly change the outlook.
Detroit’s top three receiver spots appear locked in with Amon-Ra St. Brown, Isaac TeSlaa, and Jameson Williams leading the group. Veteran Greg Dortch enters camp as the favorite for the WR4 role thanks to his experience and familiarity with offensive coordinator Drew Petzing’s system.
Beyond that, the competition remains wide open. Cedrick Wilson Jr., Dominic Lovett, Jackson Meeks, and several others will battle for the remaining spots, while longtime Lions receiver Tom Kennedy is once again viewed as a strong practice squad candidate. Malik Cunningham also faces an uphill battle to earn a place on the final 53-man roster.
Campbell recently praised the overall depth of the roster, noting that the Lions could have some of the strongest competition for roster spots since he arrived in Detroit. The wide receiver position is shaping up to be one of the team’s most closely watched battles when training camp begins next month.
